New Mazda CX-5 2017 review

The second-generation Mazda CX-5 is now
on sale, and our motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay, was among the first to test
drive it at its UK media launch in Scotland.

Fresher

The Japanese-made compact crossover has always been a
handsome and refined car. So, it’s no surprise that, due to its blend of style,
driving dynamics and economy, the Mazda CX-5 has seen 1.5
million sales globally. Mazda’s design team had its work cut out to improve
something that, quite frankly, didn’t need improving. But, what they’ve done is
sharpen up the crossover, so everything looks tighter and fresher.

Enhancements

It’s more than just a makeover, though – enhancements have
been implemented all over. And that includes an all-new cabin. Designed under
the notion of ‘Refined Toughness’, the latest-generation CX-5 features a lower
roofline and sleeker sides. These changes emphasise its unyielding posture and
sophisticated proportions. Indoors, Mazda has amalgamated scrupulous cockpit
ergonomics with a classy, roomy cabin.

Jinba-Ittai

Born out of the Japanese automaker’s ‘Jinba-Ittai’
car-and-driver as one thinking, the new CX-5 offers fresh echelons of comfort
and driver engagement. Driving the 2.2
150ps 2WD Sport Nav Auto, it’s obvious Mazda has also reduced vibration and
noise within the cabin. I drove the model in rain-sodden Inverness – and the
car managed to all but mute the sound of the rain, which was coming down
like stair rods.

Handling

Even though I came across some severe car accidents, no
doubt caused by aquaplaning, I was able to push the CX-5 enough to note the
car’s handling precision is better than ever. In some ways, the evil Scottish
weather was a blessing. Well it was for Mazda’s UK PR team – as the pounding
rain forced me to fully concentrate on the test drive rather than take in
the Cairngorms. The mountain range was pretty much obscured by angry
clouds. So, I even became aware of the CX-5’s stiffer body rigidity, (15 per
cent stiffer than the first-gen model).

G-Vectoring

But the way the new CX-5 drives is far more engaging and
comfy, due to the ushering in of G-Vectoring Control (GVC). This basically
mimics the weight-transfer methods racing car drivers use. It makes road cars
piloted by average Joes, like you and me, handle like they’re in the hands of a
pro.

Performance

Presented in two trim levels, the ten model UK line-up is
available from £23,695. Both the SKYACTIV six-speed manual transmission and
SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed auto feature, as does the newest generation of Mazda’s
intelligent i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system. The 2.2 150ps 2WD Sport Nav Auto I
tested is just so easy to drive. The zero to 62mph time of 10.1secs feels
powerful enough, and the top speed of 124mph is more than adequate. Perhaps
more importantly, you can expect up to 50mpg on an average run, while CO2
emissions are 147g/km.

Kit

All CX-5s are kitted out well, with interior equipment such
as dual-zone climate control, DAB radio and a colour touch-screen display with
navigation. The Sport Nav trim adds an eight-way electrically adjustable
driver’s seat, a reversing camera, and Smart keyless entry. A heated steering
wheel and bottom warmers on the front seats are also a bonus. But I’ve saved
the best bit of kit for last – the Sport Nav trim features a head-up display
that throws information straight onto the windscreen – and includes Traffic
Sign Recognition. This is awesome, as it keeps you firmly absorbed on the road
ahead – something I needed to be, considering the stormy weather.

Verdict

There’s no reason why you shouldn’t go for the new
Mazda CX-5, if you’re in the market for a compact crossover. At £30,195
for the 2.2 150ps 2WD Sport Nav Auto it’s not a cheap car, but it will
last you. Mazda is renowned for its bullet-proof, reliable engines, and with
the way it looks, steers and handles, this is a car you’ll enjoy driving.
Moreover, it’s a spacious, practical motor that doesn’t gulp down fuel. It’s
also a bit different to the rather ubiquitous and often more expensive German
compact crossovers out there. Why not come and visit us to test
drive the new Mazda CX-5 for yourself?